On March 11, the passenger ship Binh Minh QN 6048-BM sank at its berth at the port of Tuần Châu in Quảng Ninh, Vietnam. At the time of the sinking, there were two crew and the master on board. When the crew discovered the vessel was sinking, they were able to get ashore before the Binh Minh submerged. No reports of injuries.
Authorities have stated they have launched an investigation into the incident. Reports state the vessel was later recovered and put back into service.
Four barges ran aground and sunk on the Ohio River just below the Pike Island Locks near Wheeling, West Virginia. Reports state the barges loaded with coal were being towed when they ran aground while waiting on another towboat to pass. Authorities state the barges are outside the navigation channel and has not impacted traffic. The owner has begun efforts to refloat the barges. No reports of injuries.
On March 13, the 50 meter long, 581 gt supply vessel Leigh River sank in the Gulf of Mexico some 55 miles off Veracruz, Mexico. The vessel had sprung a leak in the engine room which overwhelmed the Leigh River’s pumps. Unable to control the flooding, the crew sent out a distress call. Authorities dispatched a helicopter to the scene while the 190 meter long bulk carrier Sredna Gora diverted to the scene. The helicopter arrived to find all eight crew of the Leigh River safely abandon ship and transfer over to the Sredna Gora. No reports of injuries.
Reports state the Leigh River later sank. No further details reported.